EVIAN. June 3 (Interfax) - Russian President Vladimir Putin said Russia is
ready to further develop relations with the U.S.

At a briefing in Evian, Putin recalled Russia's firm position on Iraq and
said that it could have caused President Bush "to take offense, not to come
to St. Petersburg and head for further confrontation in the relations between
Moscow and Washington."

"But Bush acted like a serious politician who wants to develop relations
with Russia and the whole world. It would be stupid to push back a hand
outstretched in friendship, to turn one's back and sulk. We are not going to
make any coalitions," Putin said.

"The U.S. is Russia's major partner, and in some areas the United
States' role is absolutely unique for Russia," Putin said. "We are
talking about issues relating to the strengthening of international security and
strategic stability," he said.